1. How do I book a safari with Redream Safaris?

Answer:
Booking with Redream Safaris is simple and tailored to your needs. Step 1 — tell us your preferred travel dates, rough budget, group size, and any must-see highlights (e.g., Serengeti migration, Kilimanjaro trek, Zanzibar beach time). Step 2 — we’ll send a proposed itinerary with accommodation options (lodge, tented camp, mobile camp), a full cost breakdown (what’s included/excluded), and optional add-ons (hot-air balloon, cultural visits, beach extensions). Step 3 — to confirm we ask for a deposit (usually a percentage of the total; exact amount depends on the package). Once we receive the deposit and your passport details we secure park permits, lodge bookings, and internal flights. Final payment is due before travel (we’ll state the date in your invoice). We handle all logistics — transfers, park fees, licensed guides, and activity permits — so you can relax and focus on the experience.

2. What payment methods do you accept and what is your deposit policy?

Answer:
We accept bank transfers (SWIFT), major credit/debit cards (processed through a secure gateway), and some payment platforms (we’ll confirm options with your booking). Our standard policy is a non-refundable deposit to hold dates (percentage depends on the trip length and season); the remainder is due a set number of days before departure (typically 30–60 days). For last-minute bookings we may require full payment. International bank transfers can take several days — please allow time for clearing. If you pay by card there may be a small processing fee. We always issue a detailed invoice showing the deposit, balance due date, and payment instructions. For large groups or customized private safaris we can discuss staged payments or escrow arrangements.

3. What’s included in our safari prices — what can I expect?

Answer:
Standard inclusions for most Redream Safaris packages:

• Accommodation as specified (lodge, tented camp or mobile camp).
• All game drives and guided activities with a professional, licensed guide/driver.
• Park entrance fees and conservation fees listed in the itinerary.
• All meals while on safari (breakfast, packed lunch, dinner) — specifics depend on the lodge/camp.
• Road transfers and scheduled internal flights included in your itinerary (if applicable).
• Bottled water in the vehicle and basic refreshments during drives.
• Local taxes and service charges.

We also clearly list exclusions (international flights, visas, travel insurance, personal purchases, some optional activities, gratuities, and any medical expenses). If you want meals upgraded, private vehicles, or special photography guides we can quote those as add-ons.

4. Do I need a visa to enter Tanzania?

Answer:
Many visitors require a visa to enter Tanzania. The Tanzanian government operates an online e-visa/e-immigration portal where most nationalities can apply for and pay for their visa before travel — this is the recommended route because it speeds arrival. Passport validity requirements (for example a minimum 6 months validity) and the specific visa type depend on your nationality and your travel plans (single entry, multiple entry, business, etc.). Always check the official Tanzanian immigration/e-visa site before travel and keep a printed/electronic copy of your approved visa.
Tanzania eVisa

5. What vaccinations and health precautions do I need?

Answer:
Health requirements and recommendations can vary by country and change over time. Two points to note immediately: (1) Yellow fever vaccination — Tanzania requires proof of yellow fever vaccination for travelers arriving from countries with yellow fever risk; if you transit through a risk country, different rules can apply. (2) Routine travel vaccines — ensure you are up to date with routine vaccines (measles, MMR, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis). Many travelers to Tanzania are advised to get hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations depending on itinerary and style of travel. Always consult a travel health clinic 6–8 weeks before departure for personalized advice and to receive any necessary shots.

6. Do I need malaria pills?

Answer:
Yes — malaria prophylaxis is commonly recommended for travelers to most safari areas in Tanzania (especially areas below ~1,800 meters). Choice of medication depends on personal health, drug interactions, pregnancy status, and the specific regions you’ll visit — speak to a travel medicine specialist or your physician who can recommend an appropriate antimalarial and the correct start/stop schedule. In addition to medication, use mosquito-avoidance measures: long sleeves in the evening, insect repellent (DEET or picaridin), permethrin-treated clothing, and mosquito nets where provided.

7. What is your cancellation and refund policy?

Answer:
Cancellation rules should be clearly stated in your booking confirmation (and on the Redream Safaris booking page). A recommended structure for clarity:

• Deposit — non-refundable after booking confirmation (unless otherwise agreed).
• Cancellation 60+ days before departure — refund of payments minus deposit and any non-refundable supplier costs.
• Cancellation 30–59 days — 50% cancellation fee of total trip cost (or supplier fees if higher).
• Cancellation <30 days — 100% of trip cost, since many park permits, lodge bookings, and flights become non-refundable at this stage.
• Special cases (medical emergencies, political closures, pandemics, natural disasters) — we recommend clients have comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation/interruption and medical evacuation; we will do our best to minimize losses, reschedule dates, and negotiate with suppliers but some fees may be non-recoverable. We can add flexible cancellation clauses for an additional fee or offer credit toward future travel where supplier rules allow.

8. When is the best time to visit Tanzania and to see the Great Migration?

Answer:
There isn’t a single “best” time — it depends on what you want to see:

• Dry season (June–October) is the classic safari season: easier game viewing (animals congregate at water), lower humidity, and high chance of witnessing river crossings in the northern Serengeti.
• Calving season (January–March, in the southern Serengeti/Ngorongoro Ndutu area) delivers predator-action and newborns but can be hotter and buggy.
• Short rains (November–December and March–May) bring lush scenery, fewer tourists and lower prices; many lodges remain open but some roads can be challenging.

If the Great Migration is your priority, timing varies by year and rainfall patterns (the herds move clockwise across the ecosystem). Peak river crossing months are typically around July–September in the northern Serengeti, while calving is often January–March in the south. For precise timing and to maximize your chance of a migration experience, we plan your trip to match the latest migration patterns and lodge availability.

9. Can Redream Safaris arrange a Kilimanjaro climb? What are the requirements?

Answer:
Yes — we arrange Kilimanjaro climbs with licensed local operators and TANAPA-registered guides. Important points:

• Climbing Kilimanjaro requires a park permit and registration with Kilimanjaro National Park authorities; permits are typically issued through licensed operators.
• It is mandatory to climb with a licensed guide and a support crew (guides, porters, cooks). Group size, route selection, and acclimatization schedule affect success and safety.
• We’ll advise on route options (Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Rongai, Northern Circuit, etc.), climb length (5–9 days is common), recommended fitness training, and altitude acclimatization plans. Choosing a longer itinerary increases acclimatization time and improves summit success. We also handle park permits, rescue insurance (if required), and any medical checks needed prior to the climb.

10. How should I pack for a safari and for Zanzibar?

Answer:
Safari packing (general):

• Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing (khaki, olive — avoid bright colors and white). Long sleeves and long trousers for evenings.
• Warm layers for early mornings and evenings (fleece, light down).
• Sturdy closed shoes and a pair of sandals.
• Wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• Small daypack, refillable water bottle, binoculars, camera + extra batteries and memory cards.
• Basic toiletries, personal medications, hand sanitizer, insect repellent.
• Travel documents: passport, visas, e-ticket printouts, travel insurance, and emergency contacts.

Kilimanjaro specific: layering system (base, insulating, waterproof shell), thermal underwear, warm hat and gloves, down jacket, sturdy insulated boots, gaiters, trekking poles, high-calorie snacks, personal first-aid items.

Zanzibar / beach: swimwear, reef shoes (for coral), light cotton clothing, sarong, stronger SPF, and a dry bag for boat trips. For all activities bring photocopies of passport/insurance and leave valuables in hotel safe. We provide a printable packing checklist tailored to the trip on request.

11. What types of accommodation do you offer?

Answer:
We work with a full range of lodging to suit budgets and tastes:

• Luxury lodges & tented camps — private suites, fine dining, and premium game-viewing locations.
• Mid-range lodges & seasonal tented camps — comfortable rooms or canvas tents with ensuite facilities and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Mobile or fly-camping — for photography groups or migration-focused itineraries where being close to the action matters. Mobile camps are more rustic and used in remote seasons or areas.
• Beach hotels & boutique resorts (Zanzibar) — from boutique Stone Town boutique hotels to seaside villas in Nungwi or Kendwa.

We describe each property’s style, meal plan, exact location relative to the park, and sustainability credentials so you can choose what fits your comfort level.

12. Are safaris safe? What about wildlife and general safety?

Answer:
Safaris are generally very safe when guided by experienced professionals and when you follow instructions. A few safety rules we enforce on all departures:

• Always obey your guide. Do not approach wildlife on foot unless the guide explicitly says it’s allowed and safe.
• Stay inside the vehicle during game drives unless instructed otherwise. Sunroofs used for photography are controlled by the driver/guide.
• Keep noise low and do not use flash photography when alerted.
• At lodges/camps be cautious at night — some camps are unfenced and wildlife can be nearby. Guides will brief you on specific lodge rules.
• Take malaria precautions and avoid drinking untreated water.
• Keep valuables secure; use hotel safes when available.

We thoroughly vet vehicles, drivers, and partners and provide emergency contact and evacuation procedures for each itinerary.

13. Can children come on safari? Are there age restrictions?

Answer:
Yes — many family safaris are wonderful experiences, but age restrictions depend on the lodge, park, and activity. Some high-end tented camps and lodges accept children of all ages; others restrict younger children for safety or policy reasons. For Kilimanjaro and some high-risk activities (hot-air balloon, scuba diving), age minimums apply. We provide family-friendly lodging options, vehicles with child seats (where available), child-friendly game drives, and tailored itineraries with cultural or beach days to balance the schedule. Tell us ages and preferences so we can build an appropriate program.

14. What about dietary needs and special requests?

Answer:
We can accommodate most dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, allergies) if informed in advance. Some remote camps have limited pantry access — for highly specific diets (e.g., strict medical diets), confirm with us early so we can arrange supplies or recommend properties better equipped. Please list any allergies or medical dietary needs at booking and again before travel.

15. Do you accommodate travelers with limited mobility or medical conditions?

Answer:
Yes — we try to accommodate mobility needs, but options depend on the destination and accommodation. Many lodges are not fully wheelchair-accessible; game vehicles may require stepping up. For guests with medical conditions we request a medical disclosure form and may require a physician’s note for certain activities (Kilimanjaro, for example). We can arrange private vehicles, porters, and special assistance where feasible. For high-altitude climbs or remote areas we must evaluate case-by-case for safety and insurance reasons.

16. How does Redream Safaris support conservation and local communities?

Answer:
Responsible tourism is central to our approach. We work with local communities, pay park and conservancy fees that fund wildlife protection, employ local guides and staff, and prioritize suppliers with strong conservation and community programs. Where possible we support community projects (education, health clinics), follow low-impact practices (waste reduction, water conservation), and brief guests on respectful wildlife and cultural behavior. If you’d like a trip with a stronger community or conservation focus, we’ll design a CSR-friendly itinerary.

17. Is Internet/phone coverage available on safari?

Answer:
Coverage varies. In major towns (Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Stone Town) you’ll have reliable 3G/4G and Wi-Fi at hotels. Most lodges offer limited Wi-Fi (often in the main lodge area) — signal and speed can be slow in remote parks. Many remote camps deliberately limit connectivity to preserve the experience; consider it an opportunity to “disconnect.” Internal flight lounges and some camps now provide better connectivity; we’ll indicate expected connectivity levels for each property before you book.

18. What is the tipping etiquette in Tanzania?

Answer:
Tipping is customary and appreciated for guides, drivers, lodge staff, and porters. A commonly used guideline:

• Guide/Driver: US$10–$20 per traveler per day (or more for exceptional service).
• Lodge camp staff: US$5–$10 per traveler per day to be shared among staff.
• Porters (Kilimanjaro): small amounts per day per porter; handle tips respectfully and preferably in local currency.

Many camps have a central tipping box (pooled) — we’ll advise you which is preferred at each property. Tipping in USD is widely accepted, but having small denomination Tanzanian Shillings for local purchases is useful.

19. Can I change or extend my itinerary while I’m in Tanzania?

Answer:
Yes — we try to be flexible. Extending a stay, adding a day trip, or changing a lodge is often possible subject to availability and supplier policies. Changes made close to the date may incur extra costs (additional park fees, last-minute internal flights, non-refundable supplier fees). For extensions involving internal flights or high-season dates we recommend contacting us as early as possible so we can secure seats and rooms.

20. What about baggage limits for internal flights and safaris?

Answer:
Domestic/charter flights in Tanzania have strict weight and size limits (commonly 15–20 kg checked baggage plus a small soft daypack for carry-on) and soft-sided duffels are recommended because aircraft hold space is limited. Exact limits vary by carrier and aircraft type. Overweight luggage is charged and sometimes cannot be accepted on small aircraft, so pack light and use a soft duffel (hard suitcases can be refused). We’ll provide airline-specific baggage rules with your final travel pack.

21. Can I bring and fly a drone?

Answer:
Drone rules in Tanzania are strict and can require permits from relevant authorities and park management. Several parks and lodges prohibit drone flights to avoid disturbing wildlife and guests. If you plan to bring a drone, notify us well in advance so we can check permit requirements and park rules; we will not permit drone flights where they are prohibited or pose a safety/environmental concern.

22. Do I need travel insurance?

Answer:
Yes — strongly recommended. Your insurance should cover: emergency medical treatment, medical evacuation (air ambulance if required), trip cancellation/interruption, and activity-specific coverage (mountain rescue for Kilimanjaro, scuba diving if you plan to dive). We can recommend insurers who specialize in adventure travel and provide a sample list of what to check in a policy.

23. What happens if a park or lodge is closed due to weather, strikes, or other events?

Answer:
On rare occasions a lodge, conservancy, or park road may be closed due to extreme weather, maintenance, or unforeseen events. We monitor conditions closely and will propose alternative routes, accommodations, or rescheduling. Our priority is guest safety and ensuring you still have a strong experience; refunds or credits depend on supplier policies and the circumstances. Comprehensive travel insurance can protect you in many such scenarios.

24. Who do I contact in an emergency while traveling?

Answer:
We provide a 24/7 emergency contact and local support numbers in your booking pack. Your local Redream Safaris representative will coordinate medical help, evacuation, or urgent itinerary changes. Keep a copy of your travel insurance policy and emergency contacts (family, insurance provider) in your phone and printed in your travel documents.